MAM
Harman welcomes Christian Sobottka as new CEO; Michael Mauser hung his boots after 27 years
MUMBAI: A changing of the guard is underway at Harman International, the tech powerhouse behind cutting-edge automotive, consumer, and enterprise innovations. Michael Mauser, the company’s longtime leader, is stepping down as president & CEO on 31 March 2025, making way for Christian Sobottka, who will officially assume the role on 1 April 2025.
After 27 years at Harman, Mauser has decided to pass the baton, having led the company through industry-defining moments, including Samsung’s acquisition in 2017, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global semiconductor shortages. Under his leadership, Harman hit $11 billion in revenue, achieved record profitability, and amassed a jaw-dropping $45 billion in automotive business backlog.
“After nearly three decades with Harman and aligned with our diligent succession planning process, I have decided to step away to spend more time with my family and explore new opportunities,” Mauser said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident in Christian’s ability to lead Harman into its next chapter.”
Stepping up is Sobottka, a seasoned automotive industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. Since taking over as president of Harman’s automotive division in 2021, Sobottka has been at the forefront of major transformations, steering Harman towards a product- and software-focused model. His expertise in advanced in-cabin experiences and strategic automotive partnerships makes him the ideal choice to drive Harman’s next wave of innovation.
“I am honored to assume the role of president & CEO of Harman,” Sobottka said. “Building on our legacy of innovation and excellence, I look forward to working with our talented teams to drive the next phase of growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners.”
Harman’s board of directors chairman Young Sohn praised Mauser’s unwavering leadership and vision, stating, “We extend our deepest gratitude to Michael for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to Harman’s success. His strategic vision has positioned the company for continued growth. We are confident that Christian’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to guide Harman into the future.”
Alongside Sobottka’s appointment, Harman’s lifestyle division president Dave Rogers will join the board of directors, marking another shift in the company’s leadership team.
With its legacy of cutting-edge innovation, Harman remains committed to revolutionising connected technology across automotive, consumer, and enterprise markets. The transition from Mauser to Sobottka signals a new era of growth, software-driven advancements, and global expansion.
Brands
Safex Group appoints Richa Malhotra as group chief financial officer
Former Standard Chartered executive to steer finance
NEW DELHI: Safex Chemicals has appointed Richa Malhotra as group chief financial officer, strengthening its leadership team as the company prepares for the next phase of expansion in specialty chemicals and global agrochemicals.
In her new role, Malhotra will lead the group’s financial strategy, capital architecture and governance framework as Safex scales operations across multiple verticals including branded formulations, specialty chemicals and contract manufacturing.
A chartered accountant and graduate of Shri Ram College of Commerce, University of Delhi, Malhotra brings more than two decades of experience in business finance, strategic planning, corporate banking and client management.
Before joining Safex, she served as executive director, financial markets at Standard Chartered, where she led teams across India and Sri Lanka and worked closely with large corporates, global subsidiaries and commercial banking clients. Her expertise includes capital structuring, treasury operations, risk management and financial markets led financing solutions.
Safex Group promoter director and joint managing director Piyush Jindal, said the appointment comes at a pivotal time for the company. “Safex stands at an inflection point as we build an integrated platform across branded formulations, specialty chemicals and contract manufacturing. Richa’s experience across global financial institutions will strengthen our financial discipline and help unlock value across the group,” he said.
Malhotra said she was looking forward to contributing to the company’s next chapter of growth. “Safex has built a strong reputation over 35 years with its focus on integrity, innovation and agricultural insight. I am excited to be part of the organisation as it expands its footprint in India and global markets,” she said.
The appointment comes as Safex continues to strengthen its financial foundations and scale operations internationally, positioning itself for future growth milestones.
